Empowering women to be entrepreneurs
We’re working to narrow the gender gap in Latin America by helping women become powerful forces in their local communities.
Duke Energy International bases its Emprendedoras del Sur (Women Entrepreneurs of the South) program on our belief that economically self-sufficient women spark thriving communities.
It began in San José de Chilca, Peru, in 2011 and expanded to other regions in Peru, including Ancash and Ucayali, in 2012. We are also planning to spread the program to women in other Latin American countries where we operate.
The program teaches basics, such as how to write a business plan, and then trains women to manage and market their own small enterprises. Technical support helps ensure they have access to, and training on, the latest essential business tools.
The women entrepreneurs operate businesses that range from bakeries and hardware stores to child-care facilities and food stores.
The goal is to help women follow their dreams and build sustainable businesses. When women have the know-how to boost their incomes, they can improve their families’ lives and make their communities stronger.